In celebration of National Volunteer Week from 17 to 23 May, Port Stephens Council is acknowledging the work of volunteers and the key role they play in the community.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says the week is a chance for us all to recognise the significant contribution of volunteers locally.
"Our 640 volunteers give their time and energy to make Port Stephens a better place — without them many of our services and programs couldn't exist.
"They help to keep our parks, reserves and cemeteries pristine, improve our natural bush areas and keep our local centres up and running," he said.
"From making a hands-on contribution through Landcare and our libraries or managing the programs and services in our local community halls — our volunteers are the lifeblood of the community.
Mayor Palmer said the theme of National Volunteer Week for 2021 is 'Recognise. Reconnect. Reimagine.'
"Given everything we've been through as a community over the past 18 months — including fires, floods and a pandemic — it's more important than ever to recognise the role volunteers play to make our communities strong and resilient.
"This week is also an opportunity to reconnect through volunteering and to reimagine how we can better support volunteers to help our community, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
"There are plenty of ways to get involved in your community, whatever your time or skills. We recently held the Medowie 7 Day Makeover where we welcomed many people who hadn't volunteered before to reimagine and recreate their town centre.
"No matter how big or small their contribution, our volunteers have a huge impact on our environment, economy and community. Their efforts make many of our Council's projects and services possible, meaning better outcomes for our whole community.
"On behalf of everyone in Port Stephens, I'd like to thank all of our volunteers for the fantastic work they do and their contribution to our community," he said.
It's easy to become a volunteer. Find out how to get involved: portstephens.nsw.gov.au/volunteers
